Each year, the Timmins Fire Department takes part in Fire Prevention Week, hosted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” The goal of Fire Prevention Week is to help individuals learn how to stay safe in case of a fire.

This year’s theme highlights the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home. According to NFPA, smoke alarms reduce the risk of death due to a home fire by more than half – if they are working. Roughly three out of five deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

The Timmins Fire Department offers these key smoke alarm safety tips:

• Install fire alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level of the home, including the basement.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button. • Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10-years old.
• Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

Between today and Friday, October 11, 2024, the Timmins Fire Department will be set up at various locations throughout the City to talk fire safety and the importance of working fire alarms. For a complete list of dates and locations, visit: https://www.timmins.ca/our_services/emergency_services/timmins_fire_department/fire_prevention/fire_prevention_week.

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and smoke alarms, visit fpw.org.